Kris Allen – The Vision of Love – Music Video Premiere

Kris Allen sends a strong anti-bullying message in his new music video for his lead single “The Vision of Love:” from his forthcoming album, Thank You Camellia.

Directed by Lenny Bass and filmed last month in Los Angeles, the storyline involves two teens, one insecure and lonely, the other tormented by bullying, and ultimately shows how acts of kindness helps those suffering find inner strength and confidence.

The scenes of the teens are interwoven with Kris performing the song in an empty loft. It’s a nicely done video, with a clear simple story and a worthwhile message, so take a look below.

Founder and editor of mjsbigblog.com, home of the awesomest fan community on the net. I love cheesy singing shows of all kinds, whether reality or scripted.I adore American Idol, but also love The Voice, Glee, X Factor and more!

Amazing! Beautiful! BEST VIDEO EVER! :) That is all that needs to be said from me lol.

http://twitter.com/bleubebe98 Paulie

REALLY nice video. i love it! BRB rewatching.

Anonymous

Very nice.

Anonymous

Kris looks amazing.

Anonymous

BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous

Do you ever sleep,MJ? I don’t know how you do, it but thanks.
The director really did a great job. It could be cheesy in the wrong hands, but instead it really is rather touching. I love it.

http://profile.yahoo.com/HUZRA5SXHFGQHJ6UJHKPYZQ7KI pamela

Awesome Video! I really like the message and the song.

Meynard Bonoen

I love it! nice person, great sound,? excellent video and beautiful message all in one! It’s really hard to find gem like this nowadays!

Anonymous

So Kris is using the anti-bullying campaign for self-promotion! Really not impressed!

Anonymous

Good times for Kris and his fans! Like the song. Video is nice as well.

Anonymous

Love the song, the video, and the message.

http://twitter.com/krisjonin Jonins

I enjoyed the video.. specially when you can see how HOT Kris is hehehe

http://twitter.com/krisjonin Jonins

Please tell me you’re kidding right?! I don’t look at it as self-promotion.

Anonymous

I really like this song and I don’t care who make’s an anti-bulling video as long as the message get’s ot there.I think this is well done.

Anonymous

Love it. Love the fact that Kris finally looks as natural and unselfconscious as he does in concert (and pretty gorgeous as well – he’s one of those rare people who looks better when not dressed up too much). The passion with which he performs is clear to see.

The bullying scenes help bring the lyrics to life, without telling some complicated story that overshadows the song. The warehouse/loft setting for the Kris scenes is pretty cool, too.

I hope that millions of people see it! Many times over!

freckledLIPS

simple video but the message is awesome:)
he’s so sexy, my god!

rayni

Well, it made me cry.

I love this song and this was a beautiful expression of it. I love Kris’ voice and lawd, he’s a handsome man. Lawd. Thanks mj – wonderful to wake up to.

Anonymous

Where is all of the media promotion for this song – ?

http://twitter.com/Miztig Miz

WOW. This exceeds my expectations. Strong and well portrayed message with cohesive editing, beautiful cinematography, and of course a fantastic song. It’s layered and tells a story without being preachy.

When I read the casting call, I had trouble visualizing where they were going with it and I thought it had the potential for being too busy. There are two characters that evidently didn’t make the cut: the 30ish female troop returning from duty and her ‘elderly’ neglected mother. (I’m still rolling my eyes at someone in casting considering the mother of a 30 year old ‘elderly’)I love it!

Kirsten

Great video. It captures the spirit of the song and I love the cinematography.

The kid who played the bully victim was a stand-out at conveying his emotions, but all the actors did a great job.

Anonymous

It’s very Kris Allen. Passionate and relatable.

http://twitter.com/aeyelle Angela Lim

LOL where did you ever get that idea? I don’t think that was his intent. Kris has been involved in several socio-civic causes even before his pre-Idol days. That’s just part of who he really is.

Given a choice, he’d most probably rather take making great music over self-promotion any day.

Anonymous

Some of the best acting I’ve seen in a music vid ever. That bullied kid – wow- hand that guy a movie script! I also liked the way it was resolved at the end – no grand embrace from new friends – just a quiet “stop”. And a simple inclusion of the girl in the circle of friends. Believable.

Oh, yeah. Kris. LOL. He’s really cute, sings his heart out and has a great voice. But there’s lots and lots of talent out there we could say the same thing about and I’m not sure this song will cut thru the crowd.

Anonymous

It’s not an idea, it’s a fact. He is using the anti-bullying campaign for his lead single, and therefore using it for promoting his album.

Anonymous

I really like the video-it’s interesting and subtle in my opinion. I think it should appeal to a younger demographic which is a good thing for Kris. The subject matter is something they can relate to and Kris looks absolutely gorgeous which should also appeal to them (and others!). I don’t know what other direction they could have gone with the video considering the song. I suppose they could have just made Kris “the vision of love” and had lots of close ups and shots making him look hot….oh wait.

Anonymous

Such a great video with a strong message I am sure many can relate to. Kenny Bass did a wonderful job interpreting Kris’ lyrics!

I thought the teens portrayed their parts quite well, especially the main two.
Kris has become quite comfortable in front of the camera, hasn’t he? Very good news for his fans!

Just love it as it suits the song & Kris to a tee (a very nice gray one :) and I’m REALLY hoping it will get TVOL the push it deserves!!

The best reason ever to get up this early……..:) :) :)

Kirsten

So Kris is using the anti-bullying campaign for self-promotion! Really not impressed!

Yes, I’ve always thought that Joni Mitchell was a b!tch for taking advantage of the environmental movement to self-promote with her “Big Yellow Taxi”. Gaga’s “Born This Way” is all about her coasting on the anti-racism/anti-homophobic movement. Don’t even get me started on how self-serving U2 is with “Sunday Bloody Sunday”. Who makes money off of a massacre? Bob Dylan and Joan Baez are the worst.

Or maybe they just write songs about things about which they feel deeply and want to get the message out? Maybe, instead of using issues to self-promote, they are sacrificing their music to promote issues that mean a lot to them?

Anonymous

It does seem a little self serving but if it helps promote the song while getting a message out I don’t see what is wrong with it since Kris is not exactly high profile. I thought Gaga jumping on the LGBT bandwagon with BTW a lot more distasteful, I don’t know.
The video is nice and kris looks cute. At least no more desert scenes, lol. The song is meh for me but the video makes it more enjoyable. Congrats!

Axxxel

the girl in the video was not bullied.

Axxxel

nice song, nice video, nice singer.

Anonymous

Yes, it definitely would have been easier for Kris to get traction at CHR with a party song, but that’s not what he’s about. Besides, I don’t really see the video as anti-bullying so much as pro-doing something to help.

My favorite part has to be when he has his back to the camera and does that little beat forward with his shoulders.

Anonymous

If you listen to Kris’s video on Insider.com on this link that MJ has Kris explains that he wants people to love and respect others and themselves.

During the video break of his music video he stands on top of the roof he was been video taped and sees people handing out food to the poor and says that is something he wants to convey – people should love one another and respect others.

http://twitter.com/krisjonin Jonins

Nicely put. Totally agree with you.

Anonymous

Wow, lots of emotion in this video. It’s beautiful and portrays the song well. It’s simple, but not trite. Glad it doesn’t feature grand happy resolutions – just significant next steps toward good things for each of the scenarios. I like that everyone can relate – from teens currently experiencing the stories, to adults who are past them – and also for parents and adults who care about kids currently experiencing these situations. Really beautiful portrayal of the song that more than anything just seems to ask people to wake up and love.

Nicely done, Kris and team.

Kirsten

I also liked the way it was resolved at the end – no grand embrace from
new friends – just a quiet “stop”. And a simple inclusion of the girl
in the circle of friends. Believable.

Yes. I liked that. Believable and doable.

fuzzywuzzy

“Or maybe they just write songs about things about which they feel deeply
and want to get the message out? Maybe, instead of using issues to
self-promote, they are sacrificing their music to promote issues that
mean a lot to them?”

I agree that there are some artists who compose songs that convey messages that they feel deeply about. However, I don’t think that any artist “sacrifices” their music for anything, but there are those artists for whom bringing awareness to social/environmental issues is a core part of who they are as artists.

That said, there’s a difference between those artists who initiate awareness for issues vs. those who jump on bandwagons that are already popular and established. I’m not saying that Kris just doing this for self-promotion because I do think that he’s sincere about his support for anti-bullying, but at the stage that he’s becoming involved in the “campaign” with this video, the timing is definitely more of joining an existing, popular social issue IMO. Regardless, it’s a well-done video and I like the song much better than anything else that Kris has recorded. Good luck to him!

http://twitter.com/cp_mcs Yellow Rose

This video deeply touched me in many ways. I for one will be disappointed if this does not get a lot of well deserved attention, most especially because of the awfully high increase (or media attention to….) in teen suicide. It could almost be an anthem

I haven’t listened to all of Kris’s music….but I found after listening to this one, that my interest in his other work has been fueled.

Axxxel

If this video/song can encourage one bystander to stand up for the victims of bullies… That would be wonderful. Too much is said about bullies or the victims but not much about the “bystander effect”.

I prefer to see this type of video’s than e.g. the ones that are too sexy, too over the top or so “alone” like the LLWD-video.

Axxxel

Lady Gaga going on the LGBT bandwagon with BTW is still acceptable to me. The video of that song did not give any indication of that bandwagon though…

Tess

Just got up…stretch….and watched the video and I can say that I was actually upset when it was over because I wanted MORE of the story….don’t remember much of the song but it fit the video very well but the jest of the video was stunning and very very well done.

Anonymous

Kris’s message has always been about service to others and loving each other without bias, without prejudice. Since winning American Idol, Kris now has first hand knowledge of cyber bullying, ironically fom those who supposedly are the “enlightened” ones. I actually got a “help Haiti” vibe, literally when the world shakes, but also figuratvely on a more personal level. It’s a beautiful video with a strong message. The girl looking at herself in the mirror with self-loathing is so universal. She is the face of your daughter, your neice, your neighbor, or even yourself and then she takes that chance and someone reaches out to here, accepts her. Lovely! And the I’d being bullied broke my heart, it was so well done, waiting for the other kid to “stand for the vision of love”, so not an easy thing to do. Everything about the video was visually pleasing, namely Kris. lol. I am not easily moved and okay it may have been because I was half-awake on first viewing, but I got a bit choked up– that’s how real, how authentic this video played out to me. These kids got it, maybe lived it. Well done!

Anonymous

Please don’t forget that this song was written a while ago, at least a year or more…

HappyDaisy

Nice. Doesn’t feel preachy or over-done.

Can’t have too much kindness in this world. Need more, not less. Thanks Kris.

Kris looks very nice, sounds great, and it’s an inspiring song.

Anonymous

LOL!

http://twitter.com/desireechick kesia monteith

LOVE! IT! LOVE! KRIS ALLEN!

played it 8 time now :)

Anonymous

When the songs are written by the singer themselves most of the time, it will be a message that the singer feels personally and is inspired about. Why write a song if it has no meaning for you.

If Kris wants to tell the world to love one another in all his songs, I have no problem with it. If I have a problem with it, I will just not buy or listen to the song. I enjoyed the MV and the song very much.

Anonymous

Oh gosh after watching a few times the nuance throughout is incredible – well done and quite impressive! I think Kris should stick with this Kenny fellow as he seems to really get Kris and knows how to capture it all on film!

So happy for Kris – no wonder he talks about being proud & excited lately – he has so many reasons to feel this way!!! Congratulations to all. :)

Anonymous

A few notes:

1.) Kris has been involved with civic/charitable causes long before releasing TVOL, including performances in honor of The Trevor Project. So the idea that he’s just becoming involved now doesn’t hold weight. And suggesting such is to ignore the previous good works Kris has done, IMO.

2.) The video isn’t just about bullying. The girl wasn’t bullied, but uncomfortable with who she was. She had learn how about self-love and giving herself a chance to be liked by others.

The video shows two types of love: love for humanity (the hoodie guy letting the bullied kid go by without being bothered) and love for oneself.

If anything, the video is more about standing up for what’s right, whether it’s bullying or self-courage. That’s a great message and suggesting that Kris is being self-serving with it–again, IMO–ignores Kris’ already well-known charitable side.

I don’t think Kris is sacrificing anything, because the song would be good without any knowledge of the meaning behind it. To me, it’s a correlation between Kris the musician and Kris the person. A mutual relationship, which is something all artists in all mediums aspire to achieve.

Really good video. Thumbs up from me.

Anonymous

My sister and brother-in-law just got divorced, and they have 3 daughters. It was a really ugly divorce, with the girls getting caught in the middle and having to move to a new state. Both the teenager and the pre-teen recently started wearing gobs of make-up when they started going to their new school, so that lyric in the song just breaks my heart for them. Hopefully, they will do what the girl in the video did and just realize that they don’t need to hide.

Anonymous

Kris Is far from self-serving. He is the quite the opposite of that. lol.

Anonymous

During his season some of the contestants treated Adam differently, I am not going to mention the incidents, but Adam said that Kris was the guy who stepped forward and was his good friend on the show. Adam said that Kris is how many straight guys should be. Adam painted 9 nails black and Kris painted 1 nail black in solidarity of their friendship on the show.

So Kris practices what he preaches in the song.

koshka

Nice video :) still don’t care for the song.

fuzzywuzzy

“ETA: Just real all the comments and I have to say, prior to watching
the video, I was a little hesitant about Kris’ altruistic motives in
making this video, but after watching it those thoughts did disappear.”

Altruistic? No, making this video isn’t altruistic, otherwise the proceeds from the sale of the video and song would be donated to an anti-bullying organization/campaign. However, it’s a nice addition to the other celebrity voices advocating for treating each other with kindness and encouraging bystanders to intervene when they see youngsters being bullied.

Anonymous

I think that’s a leap. The song itself isn’t about bullying, but it has a universal message about helping people. It is no different than either of the songs that Pink released last year Raise Your Glass and F’n Perfect. The messages isn’t that far off from Katy Perry’s Firework.

Those are recent examples, but neither the theme of the video or the song are new, artists have covered them before. I’m also pretty sure that the artists didn’t need to complete any type of prerequisites before they addressed these issues.

http://twitter.com/Miztig Miz

nvm

luly

I think that this is a beautifully done video about an important message. It fits the song perfectly, without being too cheesy.

http://twitter.com/Miztig Miz

Thank you Kirsten. You may speak for me anytime.

Anonymous

I was so impressed with the lyrics and now to see it played out in the video just really touches me. The vision of love is pretty strong message and it covers more than bullying I think – it starts with loving oneself, loving peers and reaches out into communities and beyond. Even if it is hard to acknowledge or even if the world may be a bit cynical these days it is worth a try to put it out there!

Anonymous

I can’t say that I’m sad that they cut the mother/daughter storyline. This works better with just the young boy and girl, and of course all of the awesome scenes of Kris performing.

Anonymous

I love this song, and the video. This song has a lot of potential to become a big hit, in my opinion. And I love Kris’ voice – there is just something about the tone of it that I really, really like. I have no idea how I missed that before, I guess I just wasn’t paying much attention to Kris until now.

Anonymous

Love, love the video, love the song and most absolutely LOVE Kris.
Way to go Kris !

fuzzywuzzy

First, I’m not “accusing” Kris of doing anything. Second, even a year ago, the anti-bullying public campaign was established and flourishing, and I totally understand that Kris has genuine feelings in writing this song, but I was simply referring to the timing of the release of this song, and especially the video, tying into very visible public campaigns for awareness for bullying and helping youngsters who are feeling down for whatever reason. Nothing wrong with that.

Anonymous

The message is told effectively (because I don’t think any of it was hard to grasp) and it got me emotionally involved.

Then the parts with Kris are really just the best thing he’s done on video so far – by far. Very comfortable, he moves like he does in concerts, and he’s moved by the music – and yeah he look fantastic. And sounds great, too. I’m appreciating Kris as a singer and as a songwriter, here.

And the beat of the song is amazing, a really cool counterpoint to the action, because often this kind of story is found in a video for a ballad. Ultimately it’s a very positive message, the song is positive, and makes me feel like moving, as well as making me feel happy.

Just some raw reactions – I just saw the video for the first time.

Anonymous

The song itself isn’t about bullying, but it has a universal message about helping people. It is no different than either of the songs that Pink released last year Raise Your Glass and F’n Perfect. The messages isn’t that far off from Katy Perry’s Firework.

Co-signed. Arists write songs about self-esteem and esteem for others because those are universal issues.

I think this is a well-edited, well-acted video that people will find universally relatable.

I’m still finding the falsetto really, really distracting (I’m not against it if it serves the song, but I just don’t feel like it does here), but the song itself is really solid and I hope this video helps it find its audience.

justmefornow

Nice video. What a great song from Kris. I think he has a hit with this.

Anonymous

I don’t sense a hit with this song. It seems above average.

escape

The video is just OK for me. I don’t think it was all that creative. It would a nice change to see Kris interact with other people in his videos. All 3 of his videos basically just shows him singing by himself; with shots of the piano and guitar.

http://twitter.com/NJ_Lindquist N. J. Lindquist

I love it! Low-key but impactful. Very well done.

Finally get the song, too. (Partly that means I could make out the words in it.)

http://twitter.com/Miztig Miz

elliegrll, I’m not sad that storyline was cut either. As I said, it would have been too busy. I love how this turned out.

I’d like to add that the song itself lends itself to so many scenarios. We saw that early on with the leaked dance mix being adopted for a gay pride video.

The song itself is about acceptance, inclusion, loving and helping your fellow man/woman … those little acts of kindness that can go a long way. This is what Kris is about as a person. In my opinion, of course. ;)

Anonymous

OMG this is perfect! The song has such a positive message and I’m glad the video match that. Plus Kris looks amazing!
Can’t wait for the album to drop

Anonymous

Sorry Fuzzywuzzy (like your name btw :) my reply wasn’t supposed to be a reply to yours.. So no, not accusing you.. :) Hence I used ‘anyone’ in my text.. :)

Anonymous

OMG the video is perfect. The song has such a wonderful message, I’m glad the video delivered that. This song is absolutely fantastic I play it every day! Can’t wait for the CD to come I already pre-ordered it

http://twitter.com/dy7764 dy77

Jinger03 I bet they will. Just need time to adjust plus preteen girls (I have two teen girls) in general wear gobs of makeup; then they get to high school and value sleep more so they stop then. ;)

Anonymous

“The song itself is about acceptance, inclusion, loving and helping your fellow man/woman…those little acts of kindness that can go a long way. This is what Kris is about as a person. In my opinion, of course ;)”

Well said and it is my opinion also Miz, thank you for saying it so eloquently! :)

http://twitter.com/dy7764 dy77

I want to like all of the positive comments! Consider yourselves all liked! This video is great – it’s beautifully shot, has a great message and of course Kris does well in it.

I’m also just happy because I read on Twitter that my local station WIAD (DC’s 94.7 Fresh FM) played TVOL last night! Time to get cracking with requesting everyone!

Anonymous

The reason I said I think this has the potential to be a hit is because after hearing the song only once, it stuck with me. And I also wanted to listen to it again because I liked it immediately. That would be typical if I was a huge Kris Allen fan (since we all listen to our favorites over and over again and think they are great), but I’m not – I actually never even paid any attention to Kris before now. This song is just a good, catchy song in my opinion. I’ll see if I’m right…I think it’s going to be a hit.

Anonymous

I quite like the song, have listened to it a few times now, I don’t know if it’ll be a big hit though, definitely not in the same way LLWD was. And I’m obviously in the minority here, but I thought the video was boring and rather bland.

judes

I love the video.To me it conveys a message of hope & the bullying & self loathing are the underlying themes but not the main message Kris is trying to get across. There are so many teen suicides or attempted suicide-where they feel like there is no hope , so if this song can encourage others to reach out & find some hope in living then that’s great. The more I hear the song the more I really love it . Thanks MJ for posting the video.

Anonymous

Who cares why he decided to include an anti-bullying message?….you can never have enough of them! I especially love that the message is directed to the witness and not the bully. With the amount of bullying going on today, you would think that bullies make of the majority. They don’t…the by-standers are the majority….but they don’t do anything but watch.

My sister and I were bullied when we moved to a new state in 3rd and 4th grade…I had no idea why. Eventually the bully, a 5th grader, attacked us on the bus…just her alone…in front of a bus full of people. No one said anything…no one help us…some even made fun of us for not defending ourselves. I admire anyone who has to courage to stand up for those that are bullied, like in this video. We need more messages like this.

Anonymous

Very nice! It’s nice to know what the song is about (apparently I never took the time to actually listen to the whole song). I’m a bit sad that about the remarks regarding Kris using the bullying theme for his own promotion. Sometimes people do things because they want to do them, because they feel connected. Personally, I tend to give others the benefit of the doubt.

Maybe partly because it would be very tiresome to always question motives, because really, could you ever trust anyone for doing things for the right reasons?

Anonymous

The audio was enough to satisfy me. But, I must say, the images combined with the audio gave me chills throughout. The actors chosen are perfect, and the song means so much more with a specific story, or 2 stories, to engage my imagination. In addition, Kris seems to have a new-found electricity here!

newinNM

Well done Mr Allen! I think the video fits the song very nicely, sends a positive message and yes he does looks cute. A video is made to help sell the song and I think this will do the job, and the fact that it could do well on christian charts is a plus. Will it be a hit? I gave up a LONG time ago trying to predict what will hit and what won’t. Songs I love flop and song I hate sell millions, I just enjoy the ones I like.

Anonymous

That is a lovely video and beautiful song. Timely message given all the justly deserved press about bulling right now. I hope it is a hit for him he seems like a nice guy.

Anonymous

Hey Tripp & Girlygirl where are you? Do you like the video? Maybe you are just waiting to bring us more goodies but I would love to hear your opinions. Seeing your posts just kinda makes my day! :)

Anonymous

Pretty sure Kris has been involved in all kinds of charities even before Idol.
The director did a great job here. I’m a little worried it’ll come off too after school special and not edgy enough. But Kris is staying true to who he is as an artist. Got to respect that.

Anonymous

nvm

http://pulse.yahoo.com/_WIHKL34XDORTS2UZP4SWUUTG3U randi

Yes, I’ve always thought that Joni Mitchell was a b!tch for taking advantage of the environmental movement to self-promote with her “Big Yellow Taxi”. Gaga’s “Born This Way” is all about her coasting on the anti-racism/anti-homophobic movement. Don’t even get me started on how self-serving U2 is with “Sunday Bloody Sunday”. Who makes money off of a massacre? Bob Dylan and Joan Baez are the worst.

Or maybe they just write songs about things about which they feel deeply and want to get the message out? Maybe, instead of using issues to self-promote, they are sacrificing their music to promote issues that mean a lot to them?

I curious as to whether you’re attempting to put Kris Allen in the same category as Joni Mitchell, U2 and Bob Dylan?? I would assume not just out of common sense but it’s hard to know inside the idol bubble just how far the hyperbole goes.

I do see the point you are making however, the difference between Kris and those artists you’d like him associated with is simple…they lead the movements, they were at the forefront of these cultrual and timely movements…not almost a year and a half later.

This looks like bandwagon jumping based on the simple fact that it’s now out of the mainstream media spotlight. Not that the message isn’t relevant all the time but I guess my next question would be has Kris done any PSAs about bullying? Has Kris made public statements about his feelings on bullying and racism, homophobia, or any of the other issues that kids face every single day? If he has I haven’t seen them.

As a side note, it’s hard to take Kris serious about his anti-bullying message when he belongs to a church which is directly linked to Focus on Families and their strong anti-gay message.

http://twitter.com/CanadianLady2 CanadianLady

One of the things I do is write novels for teens and one of the issues I address in my books is suicide and another is self-esteem. I also blog on a site for people considering suicide. I guess I’m just trying to promote myself – not!

Bullying and lack of self-esteem are huge issues, and just because there might be some campaigns out there doesn’t at all mean that people are being reached or that bullying and other issues are being resolved.

I totally love James for his songs and his work vs bullying, and I love this video from Kris. I’d love to see videos like this all over the place – instead of the many out there that give all the wrong messages.

By the way, I actually ended up at emerg yesterday and the young man in front of me
had been attacked on the street by two strangers and beaten up. he had a concussion and a bloody face and some knee and couldn’t remember much of what had happened.

Anonymous

Well, I have to speak up here – I’m not a church going person myself but I know a lot of very religious people, and just because someone’s beliefs are anti-gay (for religious reasons), does not automatically make them a bully. I feel all people are entitled to their opinions, and even though I’m an Adam fan, it doesn’t offend me in the least to know that some people view being gay as wrong – to each their own. I don’t want to get off topic here, because MJ will not like that at all – I just wanted to make a point that you sort of implied that Kris is a bully himself for belonging to a church that does not believe in being gay, and I don’t think that’s fair at all. It doesn’t seem right to me that you even brought that up.

Anonymous

That may be because Kris doesn’t think he’s much of an actor. :)

Anonymous

Kris has traveled to Haiti, a country with people of color, in the name of charity. His Donors Choose projects impact all kinds of children through education. Tom’s gives millions of shoes to those in African countries–again, people of color. And there’s the Trevor Project and its anti-homophobic message.

Does someone have to start a movement in order to be a part of it? If so, 99% of us have no chance to impact others positively. We may as well give up now.

And it’s not like Dylan started the civil rights movement. Likewise, Baez and women’s liberation. So they can be seen as band-wagoners, too.

It’s all about the camera with which one takes a picture. Anything can be seen in a thousand ways. It’s open to interpretation.

If someone wants to question someone else’s charitable efforts, it’s easy to do so. But it doesn’t invalidate those efforts, unless that’s what someone chooses to do.

Anonymous

It’s sad when real life, the human experience, is seen as boring and bland. I think there’s room for a mv or two that makes you think and feel. ; )

jersey

Oh for Pete’s sake. Kris wrote a song about loving yourself and loving others. Something he practices himself all the time. His video reflects that theme. What should the video show? Kris singing in the desert again?

And OMG he wrote a song and hopes to make money doing what he loves. So what? Isn’t that the reason all of these idols go on the show? To make money in their art?

http://twitter.com/S1ngPianoGuitar Amanda Spencer

Ok, first of all, I LOVE this video and I LOVE this song. Second of all, I’m hearing things like Kris belongs to a church that doesn’t believe it’s right to be gay and that’s not true. Kris believes in loving everyone, and has made this very clear. He has said numerous times that he loves Adam, has performed at The Trevor Project, and he seems to accept pretty much anyone. Actually, it was Adam who said that first originally. He said Kris is really open minded and loves and gets along with everyone. I don’t know why some people feel the need to make things up to make Kris seem like a bad guy, but I think he’s a pretty awesome guy and I think he’s doing a great job in his career.

Anonymous

Reminder:

Yeaahhh. Let’s stick to discussing the VIDEO, shall we?

http://twitter.com/bleubebe98 Paulie

It’s funny, when I first saw the video my first thought was that the message of the video could have been stronger. Good thing the video is just the way it is, then, given that it may be misconstrued as self-serving/self-promoting. ;)

I’m pretty sure a lot of artists have gotten the same flack over a song and/or video. I agree with the some of the replies here and just give Kris and the record label the benefit of the doubt.

The single has just been released and we really don’t know their plans about it for the future — for all we know proceeds ~may go to charity. *shrugs*

Anonymous

Kris performed at The Trevor Project’s gala last fall and was asked about bullying in an interview on the red carpet of that event. He said that while he himself had never been bullied, some of his friends had been. You can probably find the video of that interview on YT somewhere. He’s also been asked multiple times about homophobia, mainly in connection with asking him about his friendship with Adam. Again, a simple google search would answer your questions about this.

I’ve never heard that his church is connected to Focus on Families. Do you have proof of that? Are you sure you aren’t confusing his church with Danny Gokey’s? I ask this because back in S8 it was Gokey’s minister who publicly made anti-gay remarks. I never saw anything from Kris’ pastor that even hinted at an anti-gay agenda (and I’m saying this from the perspective of someone who is liberal politically and an agnostic who hasn’t stepped foot in a church in years). If you have proof that NLC is connected to anti-gay groups, could you please provide links?

Anonymous

Reminder:

KRIS ALLEN’S CHURCH NOT THE TOPIC. Move on please.

Anonymous

That may be because Kris doesn’t think he’s much of an actor. :)

I think that his acting is pretty good in the video. Or, at the very least, he does a great job of showing emotion. He’s lip syncing, but he’s totally connected with the song, and its meaning. I don’t think that was the case with the LLWD video.

Anonymous

the video gave me chills and i confess to have choked a bit. The acting is very convincing and kudos to them.
I love the song and I think the video conveys its message very well!
Kris has been on mission before and after AI to help people and has grown up with the notion of loving people. It’s kind of normal his art would reflect this at times, isn’t it?
Loved that the video shows the bystander ‘waking up’ because for a lot of bullies, the message is not reaching since they are kind of on the other side of the ‘fence’.
Great job Kris!!

Anonymous

I especially love that the message is directed to the witness and not the bully.

Whoa, this is a great point. I was just thinking about this, and realized that this hasn’t been discussed. The same point can be made about the song. It’s about helping other people, no matter whether the case is stopping someone from being bullied, being a friend, or like Kris showed in the behind the scenes video, helping to feed homeless people.

http://pulse.yahoo.com/_MV64BS4FSISCASL4P656RXAFYQ Kayla

Very nice video! I admit I was a little surprised at the original Press Release that had a blaring headline about anti bullying, but just because it never occurred to me to relate the song to that when I originally listened to it, and maybe that’s what people are reacting to more than the video itself. Because once I watched the video, I can see that it’s very tastefully done, and a much more general “lets all love and support each other” message than I expected after reading the Press Release. Well done Kris! I think this video will definitely spur sales, it’s very feelgood.

SMH at the so-called “controversy” about this video. It seems the me the overlying message of the video is to Stand Up for The Vision of Love regardless of the situation. The video isn’t strictly about the boy being bullied but about the boy who stood up to intervene and about the girl to stood up for herself in a sense gaining more self-confidence. In any case, the message of the video and the song is relatable to everyone no matter the specific circumstances.

I love the song and the video strikes a perfect balance of connecting the meaning of the lyrics without being overly sacharine. I like Kris here as he looks very comfortable and emotionally connected throughout the video. As a fan of Kris, I am very happy camper.

I’m also just happy because I read on Twitter that my local station WIAD (DC’s 94.7 Fresh FM) played TVOL last night!

Yay! I can’t wait to hear TVOL on the radio.

Anonymous

And this SONG ROCKS. It just makes me want to move. I’m trying to think of more to say but that covers it at the moment. :) …Except to add that Kris looks GREAT in the video, it’s really great promo in every way.

http://twitter.com/butterflydm Diana

Woke up, rewatched the video, like it even more.

I like that the video is expressing two different ways to show love (well, if you count Kris feeling up the wall, there’s three) and reaching out. The casting director did a really good job in finding kids who could express themselves well just through their facial expressions and actions.

And Kris is very expressive in the video as well.

Kirsten

I curious as to whether you’re attempting to put Kris Allen in the same
category as Joni Mitchell, U2 and Bob Dylan?? I would assume not just
out of common sense but it’s hard to know inside the idol bubble just
how far the hyperbole goes.

No, I’m not. I just mentioned some well-known “message” songs. I was merely pointing out that often people do believe in the “message” and want to write a song about it. They aren’t writing the song to exploit the issue.

I could have named some lesser-known songs and lesser-known artists, but then fewer people would understand the point because they would be less likely to know the song and what the artist was about (e.g. K’naan’s “Take a Minute” – most non-Canadians will go “Who? What?”). So, the point would not be made. It’s generally better to use examples that people know. That’s all. LOL. At no point did I say that Kris was the next Bono. It was just about message songs. Even untalented people can have an issue they feel strongly about, so it I was saying nothing about relative talent.

hey lead the movements, they were at the forefront of these cultrual and
timely movements…not almost a year and a half later.

Yes, thank god that U2 came along because nobody had ever thought of stopping sectarian violence before that song came out. Everybody was just content with people being blown up and shot all over the place for 14 years. And who ever heard about being nice to people in the LBGT community before Gaga? Thanks Gaga!

U2 and Joni et al were very important in publicizing their messages, but they did not start those movements and there are others who contributed. Just as we do not have just one song about being in love, we can have more than one song about saving the environment or stopping violence. Each song is another opportunity to touch a new listener and help the cause. This song and video seem to be making a genuine effort to get the message out. Just because it is a message that a lot of people have been conveying for years (and the anti-bullying messages have been around for decades, not 1.5 years) doesn’t mean that it cannot still do some good. U2 did not start the discussion about ending sectarian violence nor did they immediately stop the violence, but they lent their voice to it and helped to publicize it to some people who may not have known about it. IMO, U2’s contribution should be valued, not dismissed as jumping on a band wagon.

Not that the message isn’t relevant all the time but I guess my next
question would be has Kris done any PSAs about bullying? Has Kris made
public statements about his feelings on bullying and racism, homophobia,
or any of the other issues that kids face every single day? If he has I
haven’t seen them.

He has already participated in the Trevor project and spoken out frequently in interviews against homophobia. What precisely does he have to do to be given the right to write a song about anti-bullying? If his next song is about being in love, will I have to find lots of articles proving that he has been in love? How can I prove that he wasn’t just faking it (and his marriage) just so he could later write a song about love?

Frankly, the more times the anti-bullying message is gotten out, the better. Many who support the cause would welcome any heartfelt representation of this message.

Anonymous

Just curious, has anyone ever told you that you are just copying other young adult fiction writers, because your stories also deal with universal themes that a lot of teens have faced since the beginning of time? I’m going to bet no, because this feels like one of those topics that is special to the bubble.

Anonymous

I have kids and coach kids and I’m all for a positive message. If said positive message is popular at the moment, and it makes it “bandwagon” to promote it, I hope more people hop on the bandwagon. It makes me a little sad that lending your voice to a positive change/cause would ever be a bad thing just because lots of people are doing it!

I thought it was beautiful video, made me sniffle a time or two. I don’t follow the ins and outs of Kris’s daily life but he’s always struck me as the kind of guy who would make a video like this because this is what he believes, not because he’s using a cause to make a buck. I don’t know him, though. So just my impression :)

That song doesn’t blow my mind or anything but I like it – catchy, and sticks in my head. And if my kids will sing this one and “Stronger” (my kids love that song) instead of having passion in their pants and whatever crap they’re singing now… hooray!

http://twitter.com/buffyloverlori buffyloverlori

Really really love the video great job Mr Allen. Love when Kris is touching the wall when the girl in the video is feeling so down about herself. Love when Kris is up on the top of the building moving all around. Thought the two main characters of the two different stories did a really wonderful job, and the one guy standing up for the guy getting bullied. The guy being bullied was pretty hot, he reminds me of this guy one of my sister’s dated and I had a major crush on. This is my favorite video of his so far, Kris has so much emotion as his singing, and his so super sexy so that doesn’t hurt anything either. While he is sexy what has always made me such a big fan of his is that amazing voice and how much emotion he is able to show in his music. Just love this video and hope it helps to sell the song and if it helps people that are being bullied or has trouble believing in there-selves it well make me even happier.

Anonymous

(well, if you count Kris feeling up the wall, there’s three)

Yup, I LOL’d. A+ comment.

Anonymous

Wow. That Kris Allen is a real asshole, isn’t he. I mean, jumping on this brand new idea of love and standing up for yourself and for others who are suffering. How very dare he. And given the message of his song, I think it’s only right (not to mention timely!) that we all stand back for just a moment and cast aspersions on his motives and character. Because obviously, he’s just a jaded opportunist out to make a buck.

Kris Allen, stop being such a jerk.

/sarcasm

This is a great song and I hope Kris gets some traction with it. I have to say I was honestly moved by this video. The actor who played the bullied kid was amazing here. (Although that split second when I first saw his face I was all, “Evan Lysacek, what are you doing in Kris Allen’s video?” Just me? OK, then. Nevermind. Carry on.)

jersey

What Kirsten said :-)

http://twitter.com/tinawinabina Tinawina

Not for noting, but I do kinda feel like videos get taken way too seriously around here sometimes. Do they really matter that much? Unless its super duper buzzworthy, or super duper terrible, I don’t think they really make all that much of a difference in the long run. I may be alone in that view however. :)

I like the video, it is well done and doesn’t take away from the song. It will fit in on Vh1 which is exactly where it is going. So thumbs up from me!

http://profile.yahoo.com/6BDCFZ26QLJA3QPLBJC535N7BQ Gerarda DeSanto

Back in the day writing a song about a cultural problems was called social
consciousness not jumping on the bandwagon. I was bullying as a child and there was no awareness then. This is a serious problem that needs as much attention as possible.

Anonymous

Let me add — hooray for bandwagon jumpers!

Not that I think Kris is a bandwagon jumper, but even if he was, so what? Most organizations that promote social issues (like, for instance, The Trevor Project). ENCOURAGE people to jump on the bandwagon and spread the word about what’s going on. The more people who are aware of an issue and are willing to speak up about it, the better chance there is of something actually getting done to make things better. If I were someone being bullied, I wouldn’t care if the person who spoke up and did something to stop it was the 1st person or the 25,000,000th to be interested in my problems.

The history of the US (not to mention the world) would be a lot different if no one ever jumped on the bandwagon of a cause, just saying…

http://twitter.com/blkeener Brittany Keener

You are my favorite, Kirsten.

On an more ‘on topic’ note….I love the video. It’s not cheesy, it’s beautiful. I can relate 100% to the girl, as well as to the guy (to some extent) and the video encourages me. LOVE is something Kris is passionate about, and it shows.

I appreciate that he wrote a song about something he cares about, something that inspires him, something that is relevant…something people can relate to. After all…isn’t that what music is about? He could just write another “Touch your booty to the floor” dance song…after all, we can’t have too many of those inspiring songs, right?

Anonymous

Not that the message isn’t relevant all the time but I guess my next
question would be has Kris done any PSAs about bullying? Has Kris made
public statements about his feelings on bullying and racism, homophobia,
or any of the other issues that kids face every single day? If he has I
haven’t seen them.

He has, but even if he didn’t why should it preclude him from writing the song or making this video? I could name off the things that he’s done, but I don’t think it’s necessary. Despite the fact that it’s a universal theme, nobody else has been asked to achieve certain requirements before they record a song.

mimi

I think the video is really great. Kris is particularly compelling (and gorgeous) in his scenes which I think should better connect him with a broader audience and hopefully help TVOL itself (more than his previous videos did for their respective songs). TVOL is so good that I can’t imagine that it won’t eventually hit, as long as RCA actually starts promoting it hard.

I think one would have to reach pretty far to find any evidence that Kris is a self-serving cynic. So IMO this whole “anti-bullying”/”bandwagon-jumping” argument is laughable. So what if the video’s message is somewhat relevant to societal themes? IMO that’s preferable to it not being relevant at all.

http://twitter.com/TylerWV TylerWV

Everytime I listen to this song I love it more. I dont care who makes a video or jumps on whatever, if we can stop this kids bullying kids Im all for it. How many more kids have to commit suicide before schools really do somethig about this? As far as analyzing Kris’ motives in the video, I can’t get inside his head to know so it would just be my opinion which is worth about a grain of salt lol. Too many songs and too many singers to start analyzing motives for me anyway. I just want to enjoy the music.

http://twitter.com/CanadianLady2 CanadianLady

Nope so far. :)

Anonymous

I was really happy to see the girl’s storyline. It all starts with loving yourself.

Very nicely done. But I need to know what the significance of 7:25 is.

Anonymous

Whether one likes or doesn’t like this video, the message cannot be heard too often. Congrats to Kris for putting it out there.

http://pulse.yahoo.com/_WIHKL34XDORTS2UZP4SWUUTG3U randi

Yes, thank god that U2 came along because nobody had ever thought of stopping sectarian violence before that song came out. Everybody was just content with people being blown up and shot all over the place for 14 years. And who ever heard about being nice to people in the LBGT community before Gaga? Thanks Gaga!

I guess it’s good that you’re one of Mjs partners because comments like this from anyone else would get a ban or at least a moderator edit (which I’ll likely get for daring to call you out) O_o in other words no need to be hostile just because you disagree with my opinion or what I said Kristen.

He has already participated in the Trevor project and spoken out frequently in interviews against homophobia. What precisely does he have to do to be given the right to write a song about anti-bullying?

Kris’ comment about the Trevor project to paraphrase….it means a lot to a lot of people….so articulate and deep

as for the song itself, is this song specifically about anti-bullying? I haven’t heard Kris say he wrote it with that issue in mind. That said, Kris has the right to write about whatever he wants and since this isn’t a fansite people have the right to question his motives for belatedly jumping on the bandwagon of a cause that’s been in the mainstream for almost 2 years now.

Speaking of the video since that is the topic….it’s more interesting than any of his other videos, probably because it’s not just him in it.

MissMyEm

First of all, I love the song. Next…we all basically knew what the video would be about a few weeks ago…well at least most of us. For me, I thought the video was tastefully done in its poignancy. I don’t know many people who weren’t in those positions as children and as a teacher, I can honestly hope that this video is used in the schools. It sends a message without being preachy and IMO it’s so important for all children and teens to learn confidence that certain situations might cause them to not have. I thought that the direction was just right and not OTT. The acting as well, IMO, was subtle and not OTT.

And btw…Kris looked great. No surprises there.

Kirsten: Thank you for mentioning all those folk singers who were extremely social conscious in their day. I was and still am a big fan of them all. They are legends today, some still recording. To get a bit more modern…we have the “troubadours” of now like Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp who also sing about social concerns. I believe Bruce won an Oscar and several grammys for his song “Philadelphia”.

I have no problem with anyone who writes songs about social problems, mainly because it comes from the heart and it is not self serving.

Anonymous

as for the song itself, is this song specifically about anti-bullying? I haven’t heard Kris say he wrote it with that issue in mind. That said, Kris has the right to write about whatever he wants and since this isn’t a fansite people have the right to question his motives for belatedly jumping on the bandwagon of a cause that’s been in the mainstream for almost 2 years now.

You just started hearing about bullying two years ago? Based on the thread, you don’t seem to be alone in that, but I’ve been reading stories about kids suing their schools and school systems for ignoring this problem for years. It’s been more than two years since I was in the seventh grade, but when I was there was a girl who killed herself, because she was being bullied because she was so tall. That incident received national attention. As well as the suicide of another boy who killed himself because bullies picked on him for having Epilepsy.

This is nothing new, and books, news stories, songs, essays, focus groups, etc. about the subject have been around for more than the two years that you’ve been aware of the subject.

To answer your question, neither the music video or the song are about bullying, which just makes this whole argument incredibly funny. The point of the video and the song go along with the commitment to helping others that Kris showed before AI, during his time on the show, and since the show ended. This is the guy who said that his win would allow him to help more people.

http://twitter.com/mcdeallover Sunny Mc

Gah!!!! Love this so much! I admit that I was worried when I heard Kris was making a literal video, but this is so good. Great message, great song and really heartfelt,( & not cheesy) I teared up at the end.

http://www.facebook.com/people/Dana-Sidle/100003317515727 Dana Sidle

From the press release

…filmed last month in Los Angeles, the video for “The Vision Of Love” presents the storyline of two teens, one insecure and lonely, the other tormented by bullying, and ultimately shows how acts of kindness helps those suffering find inner strength and confidence.

So at least video is about bullying

Anonymous

Of course, we would have to ignore the girl’s storyline in order for that to be totally true.

And since we can’t ignore the words of the song either, the bullying storyline would seem to be more about the guy who stands up, and helps the kid who is being bullied.

ronnie

I love this song but it really just looks like he is jumping on the anti-bullying bandwagon trying to take advantage of it instead of being actually concerned, it just reeks of phoniness and opportunism. When did Kris Allen start to care about bullying? When it became profitable and started to get people press who came out against it? And look- plenty of tight T-shirt shots in between- it actually makes me a bit disgusted by it.

Anonymous

Bullying is as old as mankind. Addressing it is relatively new. If this video can help – good for Kris.

Anonymous

I love the video; it seems really well-made with a lot of thought put into it to bring the lyrics to life in a believable and everyday way.

Kris looks completely comfortable in it & as someone else said, it’s just like how he moves on stage while singing at one of his concerts. In other words, he’s pretty active on stage & moves with emotion and a complete lack of self-consciousness while he’s singing, just like in this video. The actors in the video are really fantastic – it’s subtle but they do a great job, especially the bullied kid, the one who steps in to stop the bullying, and the insecure girl who finds the courage to take a risk & join a group.

I’m loving all the tweets today in support of the video. There’s a lot of excitement about it, as there should be. Good job RCA, 19, Kris, and whomever put this together.

(also LOL at whoever mentioned the bullied kid looks like Evan Lysacek; I thought that immediately when Kris tweeted a picture of the cast a few weeks ago)

ronnie

Did Kris Allen ever do a “It gets better” video? You know, by people who actually were CONCERNED about the situation? Or was it not album promo time at the time?

Anonymous

I couldn’t love Kris anymore. This is WONDERFUL! I love the song anyway, but this video is just WONDERFUL! Good job, Kris. It looks like a winner, I HOPE it’s a winner. I’ve already converted a couple of anti-American Idols to THIS song, THIS guy!

Anonymous

When did Kris Allen start to care about bullying? When it became profitable and started to get people press who came out against it?

As opposed to the time when bullying was a big profit-maker and opposing it could cost an artist sales? Huh?

AFAIK, Katy Perry? Also not a Marine before she did the video for Part of Me.

http://profile.yahoo.com/4PLQMZV4QX7CHQCAUVXJBXYUCM wicked

Great job with the video!

And……………Kris looks hotter than ever.

Anonymous

Ronnie, sounds like you hardly know Kris. Tight T-shirt and Jeans have been Kris’ wardrobe since as long as I’ve known/seen Kris. He wore that when he was on AI on at least a couple of his performances as well. lol I also didn’t know that kind of wardrobe was disgusting as that’s exactly my kind of wardrobe too.

jersey

Since Kris has said he was never bullied himself, I don’t think it would have had much impact if he had done an “it gets better” video since he would have had no personal experience with it. Does that mean he can’t write a song or be part of a video expressing the idea of loving others?

Anonymous

WOW! And OMG! Loved your post, Kirsten, and it’s quite OBVIOUS a whole bunch of others did, too! 76 Likes at the time of this posting! I’ve never seen so many likes on a post here EVER! Kudos for the having the ability to express what so many others are thinking.

I think that this is a beautiful video, and just the kind of thing I’d expect from Kris. The storylines are just two of MANY that could have been used to get the message of this hauntingly beautiful song across. At the end of the day, I think it’s pretty wonderful that Kris thinks this way about the world (documented by the many selfless things that he’s done, even prior to having anything to promote), and I am intensely pleased at the results, and very proud to be a fan.

Anonymous

lol I don’t know what to make of this whole video thing. On the one hand, I remember during the tour that Kris was pretty clear that he thought Adam was awesome as a person, that he disagreed with people who would judge him, etc–and I remember a few snippets of his family talking about Adam (sorry, not to make this about Adam, just that this is the one gay person they’ve had reason to talk about publicly) and saying lovely things and just coming across as totally non-homophobic.

On the other hand, even then I remember wishing Kris would be a little more explicit about how the official stance of his church was wrong–it’s not hard to say, he’s a grown man–to say that there’s nothing wrong with being gay, pro-gay marriage, all that–and he hasn’t said much since, as far as I know (nice that he was performing at the Trevor Project, but what he said didn’t have anything to do with gay people)? idk. I think Kris is a good person, and I’m sure he means this. You don’t have to be the most perfect anti-bullying/bigotry advocate ever for your contribution to be valuable.

Though Kirsten, don’t you think “sacrificing his music” is a little OTT? I mean…I think Gaga and Katy Perry and Pink and Adam and Kris and everyone who does anti-bullying songs probably means it, but I think they’re also making music they like and, in the case of a single, hoping will sell–we can admire them and their music without trying to make them into saints. :)

Pippygirl: I like you. You are very cool and nice. And in case this seems sarcastic over the internet, I mean that totally sincerely. You seem like a lovely person and I like your comments. :)

Anonymous

I’m not spinning anything. You are describing any artistic endeavor that comes out against bullying as “bandwagon-jumping” for exposure. Which celebrities, other than writer and actual IGB founder Dan Savage, have received any extra media attention or sales because of participation in bullying initiatives?

I don’t even know the names of the directors behind the new documentary and that’s been in the papers for the last two weeks because of the MPAA ratings scandal. And it’s not going to help their sales, because the film won’t get screened in theaters that don’t show unrated movies.

But cites or links showing this huge halo effect for artists would be welcome.

Anonymous

I don’t know if Kris knows a lot about being physically bullied, but I can guarantee you he knows plenty about being cyber bullied. He wasn’t able to read his twitter replies until recently. Imagine being bullied for winning a singing competition. How sad.

Anonymous

Kris may not have been physically bullised like the kid in the vid. But I’ll never forget how the media and the internet trashed on him and cyber-bullied him right after or even before he won AI S8. So much so that he even quit reading the post on the internet for a while.. And I strongly believe those negative presses had caused him a lot of sales and popularity in his post AI career…

Anonymous

I’m still finding the falsetto really, really distracting (I’m not
against it if it serves the song, but I just don’t feel like it does
here), but the song itself is really solid and I hope this video helps
it find its audience.

See, and the falsetto is one of the things that I find the BEST and I want to hurry and get to that part each time I play the song……over and over and over!

Anonymous

Since Kris has said he was never bullied himself, I don’t think it would have had much impact if he had done an “it gets better” video since he would have had no personal experience with it. Does that mean he can’t write a song or be part of a video expressing the idea of loving others?

He must not be counting being cyber bullied. Something tells me that if he did make a “It Gets Better” video that he would still be accused of pandering, and not really caring about the issue. I guess everyone who didn’t make a video doesn’t care, even if their actual actions of helping others would seem to prove otherwise.

jersey

What would be “okay” topics for Kris to write about? Rainbows and unicorns? Why is this topic off limits? I just don’t get it. I don’t think anyone here is calling Kris a saint. And obviously he wants to sell singles, that’s part of his job. But what is wrong with writing about this topic? If it becomes a hit and people embrace the lyrics, bravo Kris!

Anonymous

You’re actually comparing a celebrity getting tweets that he shouldn’t have won a singing contest to kids getting cyber bullied for who they are?? For their sexual orientation?? For their race?? Please…give me a break and cry me a river. Every celebrity gets nasty comments, its part of the territory.

As far as the video, whatever. When I see Kris denouncing his church’s “pray away the gay” and their attitudes and funding towards anti-gay causes in a public forum, I’ll be more apt to believe him.

Anonymous

How dare he wear a tight tshirt in a music video. He should wear sackcloth in penitence for his flagrant self promotion.

Anonymous

“Imagine being bullied for winning a singing competition. How sad.”

Imagine being bullied for being born with anything that you have no control over.

Anonymous

I’m very happy with how the video turned out. The boys’ storyline is more compelling than the girl’s, but I think they both work to convey the message of standing up for the vision of love. And Kris does his part to make me happy, too, like at 1:28 and 1:43-1:55! :-)

This is the most comfortable he has looked in his videos. Very energized. Very connected. VERY hot! If I had one complaint, it would be the plaid shirt making an appearance (but then he wears one on the SW flight concert, too, so he’s clearly not over the plaid, even if I am–lol).

parsenip–I think the 7:25 refers to the next morning and time to go to school. I see SONY got a little product placement in there. I can be cynical about THAT, but NEVER about Kris or his intentions.

I really love this song and video. Good job Kris! Proud to be a fan.

Anonymous

I remember Kris saying around the time of the S8 finale that he hoped he and Adam’s friendship would show people that even if people were different from each other, it was possible to be friends and love each other. I don’t see how that statement differs from what he is saying with this song and this video.
We frequently hear about people who are “visual” artists and how that is a good thing. Well for me Kris is a visual artist as well, because the way he moves on stage and how he gets into the music enhances the experience. If this video can get other people to see and appreciate that then all I can say is about damn time!

Anonymous

Poor Kris.. Damn if you do damn if you don’t.. He can never win without been accused of something else.. It’s ok though.. what really counts is the truth in his heart and soul.. That’s all that matter..

Anonymous

isisdagmar–thanks for the kind words.

http://profile.yahoo.com/4PLQMZV4QX7CHQCAUVXJBXYUCM wicked

“don’t you think “sacrificing his music” is a little OTT?”

I like Kris and his music – however I DO think this single won’t get him NEW fans – there is possibility of being pigeon-holed as a “vanilla” “christian-type” singer (other major song was LLWD).
As a fan stated earlier “and just the kind of thing I’d expect from Kris.”

I absolutely love the song BUT I do wish he had made his next single Monster – edgy and not a “do-gooder” song. In that way I do think he “sacrificed”.
I hope he puts out an edgy song like Monster next – I know – diehard fans KNOW he has edgier songs but the general public/new listeners don’t.

Anyway – I love the song and the video was very well composed.

And…………………Kris is HOT.

Oh and the video is partially about bullying (the boy part), but the girl part was about self-love, self-respect, and self-empowerment.

http://profile.yahoo.com/Y35RL274OSFQ3PGZTXJX2FACVE mick

It’s a beautiful, moving video with a great song & a great singer. Totally loved it. All I can say is WooHoo!

Anonymous

Do you mean like being short or thinning hair? Yes, I agree that being bullied for things you have no control over is sad.

I agree. It’s the only good thing about this song and it’s catchy. It’s a pity that the rest of it so uninspiring but the vibe of the video fits it even if it doesn’t entirely make sense.

Anonymous

Reminder:

If this thread becomes contentious, I will shut it down permanently. I’m about to get very busy with the show here, and I don’t have time to babysit this post.

You know the drill. I’ll be editing, deleting comments that personally attack, question the motives of posters, attempt to mod the thread, TALK ABOUT THE THREAD OR MY MODDING.

Also, If things really get out of hand, I’ll go on a banning spree, regardless of who started what. You know…Just like TWOP. If you think a post crosses the line FLAG IT and I’ll look at it.

Once again, getting into a contentious discussion about Kris’s church and his religious beliefs. OFF TOPIC TO THIS THREAD. Stick to discussing the video please.

jan

I like the song better after seeing the video. So bravo Kris!

Anonymous

I agree. I love the song, but that last section where he sings “let’s stand for the vision, stand for the vision of love” has always kind of bugged me. Now with the image in the video of the two kids deciding to take action during that part, it just works better for me. Then you get to the quieter “wake up” section (which I already love), and it has more meaning now, because it kinda says, “they took action, now it’s your turn.”

I don’t usually analyze videos like this; this idea just struck me the second time I watched it.

Banished

I love this video. It’s simply stated, and very sweet. Much like the singer/songwriter himself. Kris has never been concerned with fame, he just wants to keep doing what makes him happy: sing and write songs. The fact that this one has meaning just makes it better, in my opinion.

Anonymous

I can understand someone questioning the motives of the anti-bullying message but when you come down on Kris for wearing tight tee shirts then I just must speak up.LOL!

I’m not going to even address the motives of Kris or his label behind this video because I don’t care. What I care about is that it is an amazing video and an amazing song. If it makes one person step up and help someone else out who is being bullied then it is fine by me. I have a nephew that is being home schooled right now because my sister had to remove him from school because of the unmerciful bullying that he suffered so it’s a bit personal to me.

As far as Kris goes I remember hearing an interview in which he was asked about giving away his guitar on a mission trip. This was his prized possession and he gave it away because he thought that they “needed it more than I did”. Kris is not a saint and he is also not the most media trained eloquent person. I do believe that his heart is in the right place though.

Anonymous

Kris is set to perform on the April 19th results show.

Paris Cortney

Been watching in HD for who-knows how many times…
Always gets me back the song, the music, the story, the editing, the lighting.
All his hard work and team in years paid off by seeing how well done this video is.
Time to enjoy the music. Enjoy Kris Allen :)

koshka

Can someone explain the role of the girl to me? I get that she is insecure, blah, blah, blah. I don’t really see what her role in the MV. I wonder if they left most of her scenes “on the cutting room floor”. Unless I missed it (which really is more than possible), no one helped her out.

Oh, and how does that product placement work into the vid?

Anonymous

Love the video. Is there any significance to the graphic on the guys’s iPad/tablet that he swipes across? Looks like a deep space shot with some icons on it.

Indigobunting

I like it!

LIke the song, bought it and enjoyed the video. I’m not sure Kris is the best dancer, lol, or has the best moves- but he looked cute for sure :)

“Or maybe they just write songs about things about which they feel deeply and want to get the message out? ”

I agree with this; I’m a big Gokey fan and songs about charity and being the best you can be kind of bore me honestly- but I know that is who he is and he sings about it, so….whatever. I feel the same way about Kris Allen- he was also involved in charitable endeavors, cares deeply about helping people so I find this video completely consistent with who he is.

Could be a sponsorship that helps pay for the video. It’s basically a standard these days. It was pretty subtle here, I’ve seen a few where product placement was OTT!

fuzzywuzzy

Of course it’s (partly) about bullying. To deny that is denying the visuals on the video. lol I’m sure that a number of potential visual “stories” were considered for the music video that would be consistent with and illustrate the theme of TVOL, and I honestly think that the bullying story was high on the priority list because it’s become a very prominent, popular mainstream campaign and would resonate with a lot of people. That’s not to say that bullying hasn’t been going on forever (it has, of course) and that Kris (or any other artist) isn’t 100% genuine in their feelings about it, but I think that the tragic responses of so many young people to bullying has pushed this whole issue to a much higher public profile, and rightly so. The more public people who show their support for anti-bullying organizations and campaigns, the better IMO.

http://twitter.com/buffyloverlori buffyloverlori

Someone on tweeter thinks it’s showing that it’s a new day can’t remember what else they said.

freckledLIPS

April 19th? I’m super excited. Then on May for my special snowflakes too;)

Anonymous

Thanks DoesMonaKnow,
Please, let me win tickets for this.

Anonymous

I’ve never been a Kris fan, more neutral either way… but I really like this video and the message – anyone who puts out a song about bullying is worth supporting in my books . Is it so odd how one can not be a fan, but still enjoy an artist’s music? :)

Anonymous

TVOL is about love for others but also includes imo love for oneself. I think this is what it is about with this girl. She then allows herself to join people

Anonymous

Kris is set to perform on the April 19th results show.

Well of course he is. I’ll be out of town for work and will probably be on a plane. Why can’t you adhere to MY schedule Kris? Thank goodness for the trusty DVR:)

Seriously I’m just happy he gets a slot. I wish that the song had taken off more and that it would have more of a radio presence before his performance but just getting to perform on idol should help. I’m excited!

koshka

Oh no.. I actually expect the use of sponsors. Good way to offset costs. Usually they build the product placement into the vid somehow. Like someone making a call with an iphone, or someone using a camera, etc.

Anonymous

Hmmm. . .could be that 7:25 AM represents a new day. To ‘wake up, if you believe’ as it were.

http://www.facebook.com/people/Cat-Green/100002863397963 Cat Green

That’s actually a SONY tablet, not an iPad. So it’s probably product placement.

http://pulse.yahoo.com/_WIHKL34XDORTS2UZP4SWUUTG3U randi

You just started hearing about bullying two years ago? Based on the thread, you don’t seem to be alone in that

In general? no, on a national media stage? yes. The focus by the media started to ramp up after a string of suicides by LGBT children and the start of the It Gets better campaign and other anti-bullying programs started trying to shine a light on this epidemic.

Bullying has been around for as long as there have been children however the difference now is social media with twitter, facebook, four-square and other social networking outlets that make it virtually impossible for the victim to escape the onslaught of hateful comments directed at them by their tormentors.

I hope Kris wants to help with the cause beyond a music video to actual involvment in bringing awareness to the problem of bullying, especially by those who use God as their weapon of choice. It would be refreshing to see someone who is an outspoken christian lend their voice to the fight against the gay bashing and anti-gay rhetoric that is spewed all over the place. perhaps if other Christians see one of their own standing up for what’s right they’ll do it too.

http://twitter.com/MoriaPolonius Moria Polonius

It would be refreshing to see someone who is an outspoken christian lend their voice to the fight against the gay bashing and anti-gay rhetoric that is spewed all over the place.

It would, wouldn’t it. Kris doesn’t seem like the type, but maybe there will be other Christian people to pick up the cause.

http://twitter.com/CanadianLady2 CanadianLady

One of my favourite books was “The Bully of Barkham Street,” first published in 1963. The bully first appeared in “A Dog on Barkham Street,” as a mean bully, but the second book was written from the bully’s POV.

Bullies have appeared in fiction and movies from the beginning. Just maybe not enough in music. :)

http://twitter.com/CapnZebbie Paula

Kris sang “Imagine” at the Trevor Project back in December. I see this video as a continuation of his advocacy on the issue of bullying, not a new thing that just came about because of this song.

I think this video is beautiful and touching. Good on Kris!

Anonymous

Ah, duly noted. They all look the same to me, who has no tablet. LOL!

Anonymous

I think Kris’s stand is really clear with the latest event being his support at the Trevor project

Anonymous

I love the rest of the song, too. It’s just the falsetto that I can’t WAIT to hear, but there is nothing of the song that’s uninspiring to me in the least.

http://twitter.com/MoriaPolonius Moria Polonius

You mean the time when he and Stefano were booked for an event? People here tried to tell me that Kris was supporting the LGBT community back then too, but to me it was actually proof he was there only for the gig. One mumbling nebulous sentence does not equal speaking up and supporting the cause in my books. *shrugs*

Anonymous

It doesn’t mean he’s against a cause, either.

http://profile.yahoo.com/Y2H6IQWNMTSNTCTWDP7TDFEKPY Linda

I’ve only watched the video once, but I have to say I really love the concept and think everything was done very nicely. I haven’t seen anything here posted about Kris’ airplane gig yesterday, but I just watched two videos on YT and he did a great job. He sang TVOL and BWY. I found myself chair dancing with both of them:) I just typed in Kris’ name and today as the upload date, and voila!

Anonymous

Catching up and WOW with all the comments! Am so happy to hear that Kris will be on AI this month & loved Slezak’s writeup – the excitement for TVOL has just kicked up a notch between the video & AI appearance announcement all happening on the same day!! *Happy Dance* for this fan! :)

http://twitter.com/MoriaPolonius Moria Polonius

And where did I say that?

I said he doesn’t appear to be the refreshing outspoken Christian to lend his voice to the fight against the gay bashing and anti-gay rethoric randi is hoping for.

too-cool-for-school

Love the video, the song, and Kris!
Now I just need the album! :D

Not sure what all of the squabbling here is about as I’m too lazy to read through it, but he has been involved in a lot of humanitarian projects, as many Idols do. He isn’t jumping a bandwagon or anything. He has consistently been doing things for charity for the last several years.

He is a really nice guy and genuinely seems to love people and want to be an encouragement to them. He’s one of the few in the ‘business’ that I trust is really sincere. For whatever my two cents is worth. :)

Anonymous

And where did I say that?

You said:

One mumbling nebulous sentence does not equal speaking up and supporting the cause in my books.

I apologize if I misunderstood.

http://twitter.com/MoriaPolonius Moria Polonius

You did. Not supporting and being against a cause are not the same to me, personally I accept the third possiblity of indifference.

Anonymous

Can someone explain the role of the girl to me? I get that she is insecure, blah, blah, blah. I don’t really see what her role in the MV. I wonder if they left most of her scenes “on the cutting room floor”. Unless I missed it (which really is more than possible), no one helped her out.

She helped herself out. She’s shy and insecure, and she didn’t feel like she was good enough to be friends with those other girls. At first she wasn’t comfortable with herself, so she tried to change, but wasn’t comfortable then either. In the end she decided just to be herself, and approach the group of girls.

I think she’s the one with the Sony tablet, and it’s like she woke up, and decided to have a different outlook on life.

Anonymous

Given the things that Kris has done, even before AI, I think that human rights are something that he cares about.

His passionate answer to someone who asked him about Adam and bigotry right after season 8 is more proof than Kris appearing in a “It Gets Better” video.

How Kris has treated Adam and others, speaks louder and is truer than the opinion of someone who has never met him.

Anonymous

Reminder:

I’m going to open this thread and will check back right before Idol begins on the East coast. If the discussion isn’t revolving around Kris Allen’s video, I’m closing the thread again, maybe permanently.

Anonymous

LOL, it cracks me up that the fact that Kris was nice to Adam during Idol is held up like some noble and to-be-lauded thing. Like it was a big sacrifice for him to be friendsly with the gay guy. It’s what SHOULD happen, it’s simple human decency not something extraordinary.

Anonymous

I just watched the video again, and maybe watched more closely because this time, I had the reaction at the close of it that other people mentioned – I was honestly moved. Combination of a lot of things. The way the stories concluded, the way they were edited, excellent performances by the lead boy and girl, the intensity of the music (which I keep saying, but it’s true – is awesome, really. Driving, great melody), the moving, true lyrics, and the coda of the song with the focus on Kris’s face and the lowness of his voice, the way the vocal fades out. I think it’s a classic.

I’m also really loving Kris’s performance. Very professional. He looks like a total movie star/pop star, to me. And please, this is not a PSA, it’s a pop music video that is produced to sell a song AND put forth a positive message (there’s no reason you can’t use your popularity as a music star to do a little good in the world, and I think that’s what Kris is all about, here). But as a pop music video selling a pop tune, they have taken full advantage of the eye candy, and that’s because they’re not stupid.

I prefer this to videos that sell trashy behavior, bad language, cheap sex, violence, guns, etc., to children. This is a really positive video, besides having a totally awesome song along with it.

http://twitter.com/beach_fn Lynn

I had no real expectation for the video but was so happily surprised. This is very well done, certainly not cheesy and conveys a great message of how easy it is to love one another vs the amount of time and energy it takes to hate and the song is an earworm and a half.

http://profile.yahoo.com/HUZRA5SXHFGQHJ6UJHKPYZQ7KI pamela

Just got home and had a chance to watch the video again. I really like the fact that they just have the two scenarios and Kris singing. The kids did an awesome job of conveying their story & Kris was great too.

Anonymous

It’s what SHOULD happen, it’s simple human decency

Of course it is, but everyone doesn’t always treat people decently. I’m not saying that Kris is a saint, but a person’s actions speak louder than anything else. What Kris has done has more meaning than assumptions.

Anonymous

ITA. Actions speak louder than words. What Kris did BEFORE, during and after AI is more than enough to convince me who he is and what he is about. In fact, I’m so impressed with him that I become a fan and care dearly for him more than I should lol. I guess you get what you give. The more he cares for others, the more I care for him. :)

Anonymous

Yep. We’re done here for now.

Anonymous

Maybe they are sacrificing their music to promote issues that mean a lot to them?

AMEN *claps*

Anonymous

MissMyEm, I just wanted to contact you. I saw your comment on THR Kris video. I just want to make sure you know that the 5 Acoustic songs came in the Fan Edition of Thank You Camellia album. You can pre-order this at krisallenofficial. And if you pre-ordered before April 9, you can have your name listed on the album. OK, that’s it.